Recognizing Timothy J. ``ted'' Connors

Floor Speech

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Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life and legacy of Timothy J. ``Ted'' Connors. Ted was a strong community leader, husband, father, and grandfather who dedicated his life to serving New Hampshire and the communities of Portsmouth and Newington. During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with the Connors family, including Ted's loving wife, Elisabeth, and his children, Captain Timothy J. Connors II, Thomas Connors, and Annelise Hartley.

Ted's persistent and positive work to uplift his community began in local politics. He found his passion in serving the community, becoming the city's first popularly elected Mayor at 26 years old. His work as Mayor to expand housing for low-income and elderly residents resulted in him continuing his public service at the Portsmouth Housing Authority. Ted's kind demeanor and infectious laugh facilitated his rare ability to work with almost anyone. He brought numerous important and historic projects to fruition like the Strawbery Banke Museum and the initial plans for Prescott Park.

A lifelong member of St. Catherine's and Immaculate Conception parishes. Ted's passion for the community extended beyond the political sphere and saw him engage with numerous projects including the renovations of his Alma Mater, St. Patrick's School. His work supporting affordable health care with Seacoast Mental Health, and the Foundation for Seacoast Health, benefited countless families across the state while ensuring that those with severe mental illness had access to the care they deserved. Ted continued his service to the State of New Hampshire by serving decades as the Chairman of the NH Racing Commission, and then as Chair of the Newington Select Board. While we can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to Ted, today we recognize his sincere generosity and immeasurable impact on the Seacoast community.

Ted will be fondly remembered by the communities he touched and those he loved for years to come. His legacy of service and commitment to Portsmouth, Newington, and the Granite State will live on. The compassion and purpose for which he served, to better the lives of those less fortunate, is an inspiration to those who come after him. I would like to once more extend my condolences to the Connors family and wish them all the very best in this time of grieving.

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